Two individuals have been apprehended following the theft of a singing nutcracker statue that typically entertains children returning home from school. The 5-foot tall figure was taken from the front of Luke Allum Funeral Directors in Sheerness, Kent. Luke Allum, the owner, expressed that the nutcracker brings delight to children in the town and was displayed daily around 3pm for the kids after school.
Allum mentioned that the company endeavors to engage in festive activities, such as the Tree of Remembrance to honor loved ones and a remembrance post box for children to send Christmas letters to departed loved ones. This year, they introduced a large singing nutcracker that delighted the children. However, while Allum and his colleagues were attending a funeral on Thursday afternoon, the figure was stolen from the business porch.
Allum expressed bewilderment over the theft, questioning why someone would choose to steal a nutcracker out of everything available. The incident was reported to the police and shared on social media, garnering support from the community. Allum emphasized that he is not seeking financial compensation but simply wishes for the return of the nutcracker, as acquiring a replacement would be challenging.
Kent Police are seeking witnesses to the theft and aiming to reunite the £250-valued nutcracker with Allum. Two Sheerness residents, aged 59 and 39, have been arrested in connection with the theft. Anyone with relevant information or CCTV footage is urged to contact Kent Police.
The stolen nutcracker, standing at approximately five feet tall, was placed in front of the funeral home to create a welcoming atmosphere for bereaved individuals, according to a Kent Police spokesperson. The hope is to return the stolen figure to Allum and restore its purpose in the community.